SOPs

In a global company using paper SOPS which require SOP signatures from multiple locations, is it acceptable to print PDF copies for evidence of signature and store these as evidence of acceptance or is it required that the wet signatures are stored?

Electronic signatures are cheaper to implement and can only be verified on the 'source' system

Digital signatures require secure certification and have the highest form of security - these are independent of the 'source system'.

Hand written signatures for SOPs may be substituted with electronic signatures - however you must consider whether the integrity, authencity and context of the electronic signature will be maintained through the documents entire retention period ( including archiving ).

Therefore it is recommended digital signatures are embedded into the documents and more appropriate of long term retention.

CFR 21 Part 11
(5) Digital signature means an electronic signature based upon cryptographic methods of originator authentication,
computed by using a set of rules and a set of parameters such that the identity of the signer and the integrity of the data
can be verified.
(7) Electronic signature means a computer data compilation of any symbol or series of symbols executed, adopted, or
authorized by an individual to be the legally binding equivalent of the individual's handwritten signature.